The Art of Making Dutch Braids

Hair braiding is one of the ancient hairstyles that is still loved by women across the world. This ancient hairstyle still looks so elegant that even today it is preferred for a formal occasion. The history of hair braiding dates back to almost 3500 to 4000 BC.

This hairstyle has evolved through the centuries, and today, there are several types of hair braids, of which the English braid, French Braid, Dutch braid, and the trendy cornrows are the most popular ones.

Dutch braid is a bit similar to the French braid. In fact, it is typically termed as the inverted French braid. Like a French braid, this braid is also weaved with 3 hair sections first. But while weaving, the right and left sections of hair are crossed under the middle strand, which creates a look of the braid standing up from the rest of the hair.

On the other hand, in a French braid, the right and the left sections are crossed over the middle strand, and herein lies the difference between these two types of braids. For weaving a French or an inverted French braid, your hair should be long and thick enough to support the braid.

The French and the Dutch braid can be incorporated and manipulated in different ways to create some intricate hairstyles. However, the basic Dutch braid is not so difficult to make, though the beginners may find it a bit complicated.

Certain factors need to be taken into account before braiding your hair.

✜ Firstly, the hair should be clean, smooth, and well-moisturized to create the desired look.

✜ So, if you have curly or frizzy hair, be sure to dampen your hair a bit with water, or else you can try a smoothing cream or gel.

✜ Next, comb your hair gently, but thoroughly to remove tangles.

✜ If required, use a conditioner to make your hair smooth and manageable.

✜ Now, separate a section of hair at the place, from where you want to start the braid. Generally, a section of hair is gathered at the middle of the crown from the top of the ears. This section is then divided into three parts or strands.

✜ To begin with, take the right strand of hair and cross it under the middle strand, so that the middle strand comes to the right side.

✜ Now, it is the turn of the left strand to be crossed under the middle strand.

✜ Then pick a section of hair from the right side and add it to the right strand of hair, after which cross the right strand under the middle strand.

✜ Now, move both the right and the central strand to the right hand, and take a new section of hair from the left side. Add this section to the left strand of hair, and then cross it under the middle strand.

✜ Now, repeat the procedure for the right strand and then for the left strand, and so on, until you get the desired length for your inverted French braid. Now, tie the end of the braid with a ponytail holder.

You can add hair jewelry, like beads to impart a classic look to your Dutch or inverted French braid, which can fit in formal occasions. You can also weave a Dutch or inverted French braid in a circle around the head. This is a truly beautiful variation, which is known as the Dutch crown braid.

Instructions given here for weaving a Dutch braid may seem a bit difficult for the beginners, but with regular practice, you will be able to weave this amazing braid on your own.